If you’ve ever wondered if it’s possible to freeze squid, then this article will answer that question and more. We’ll also discuss the best ways to freeze the ocean creature so that it doesn’t become damaged or lose its texture when cooked. Let’s dive in!
Can You Freeze Squid?
Yes, squid can be frozen. Squid freezes best when it’s raw, but it can be cooked first if you wish. Squid also freezes well in vacuum sealed plastic bags that are used for freezing. Properly stored, squid will stay fresh for up to 6 months.
How To Freeze Squid
Freezing is a great way to store squid for long periods of time. It is best to freeze the squid before it has been cleaned and cut, but you can also freeze it after cleaning and cutting.
Freezing Whole Squid
To freeze the whole squid, first, wash the squid thoroughly in cold water and remove the head and tentacles (if desired), then submerge the squid in saltwater for at least 30 minutes.
Drain the water from the squid and pat dry with paper towels.
Next, place the cleaned and dried squid in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or waxed paper, making sure not to let any pieces touch each other.
Freeze until solid, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag for long-term storage.
Freezing Cut Squid
To freeze cleaned and cut squid, first wash the squid thoroughly in cold water and remove the head and tentacles (if desired), then submerge the cleaned and dried squid in saltwater for at least 30 minutes.
Drain the water from the squid and pat dry with paper towels.
Place cleaned cut pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or waxed paper, making sure not to let any pieces touch each other.
Freeze until solid, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag for long-term storage.
How Long Does Squid Last In the Freezer?
Squid can last in your freezer for at least 6 months. That’s right—if you freeze squid, you can keep it there until the next season begins!
Of course, frozen squid will never be as fresh-tasting as fresh squid. The flavor of frozen squid tends to shrivel and become rather bland once thawed out. If you want to enjoy your frozen squid on its own merits, I recommend preparing it with other ingredients so that all of its flavors blend together into something truly delightful.
How To Defrost Squid
Freezing squid is a simple process, but you should remember that once frozen, it must be thawed completely before being consumed. There are several different methods for doing this:
- Put the wrapped package of frozen squid in the refrigerator and allow it to defrost overnight. When the time is up, simply unwrap the package and cook as desired.
- Microwave it on high in 30 second increments until thawed (1 minute will usually do). If not fully cooked yet, continue microwaving at 30 second increments until done.
- Place wrapped package of frozen squid into cold water until thawed (about 20 minutes). Remove from water when ready to cook.
Can You Refreeze Squid?
If you purchase your squid in this form, you can refreeze it if necessary. However, if you buy fresh squid at the fish counter, it should not be refrozen once thawed. This is because fresh squid has a very low freezing point that allows it to be safely eaten raw without any preparation.
When thawed, fresh squid should be used immediately or cooked thoroughly before serving. It’s best to avoid re-freezing thawed fresh squid because it can easily become contaminated with bacteria during storage or handling after thawing.
Does Squid Freeze Well?
Squid freezes well and can be stored for up to six months. The bad news is that when frozen squid thaws, it will have a mushier texture than fresh squid. That said, the flavor of frozen squid is still quite delicious and it’s a great option if you don’t want to buy large amounts of fresh seafood at once or if you just want something quick and easy to eat in a pinch.
Using Squid After Freezing
Once your squid has thawed out, you may use it in any of the following dishes:
- Stir-fries
- Soups
- Stews
- Pasta sauces
- Salad toppings
Conclusion
Freezing squid is a great way to save money and eat healthier. It’s easy to do, and you can use the frozen squid in your favorite recipes or make something new. I hope that this article has helped answer any questions you might have had about freezing squid.
Kate has been in the food business for over 20 years. Worked as a cook at several buffets which include Old Country Buffet, Five Star Buffet, and Ichiban Buffet. Now, I’m mostly at home cooking for my family, caring for chickens and ducks, and tending the garden.
